Everything You Need to Know About Wetrooms (2024)

Have you ever dreamt of a sleek, modern bathroom with a shower area that seamlessly blends into the rest of the room? A wet room might be the perfect option for you. Wet rooms are becoming increasingly popular in UK homes, offering a stylish and practical alternative to a traditional bathroom layout.

But what are wetrooms exactly, and are they right for you? This comprehensive guide for 2024 will answer all your questions.

What Are Wetrooms?

A wetroom is a beautiful contemporary bathroom design in which the shower area is open to the rest of the room without shower screens or trays to contain the water. The entire room is waterproofed, or ‘tanked’, to prevent water from leaking into the rest of the house. This creates a seamless, open-plan look that can make even a small bathroom feel spacious and luxurious.

Why a Wetroom Is a Great Bathroom Option

Wet rooms are an excellent bathroom solution for a number of reasons:

Greater Accessibility

A wetroom floor is all one level with step-free access and no screens to navigate. For this reason, a wetroom is a great option for people with mobility issues, families with young children, and older people concerned about accessibility as they age. Grab bars and shower seats can also be easily integrated for those with restricted mobility.

Increased Sense of Spaciousness

Wetrooms free up valuable floor space by removing bulky shower enclosures and bathtubs. Opening up the room makes even the most compact space feel airy and expansive, which is a huge benefit for small wet rooms or ensuites where maximising every square foot is crucial.

Easier Cleaning

As the walls and floor are completely sealed, splashes of water won’t soak into grout lines or damage paintwork. This means wetrooms are easy to clean and more hygienic.

Modern Design

Wetrooms exude a sleek, contemporary aesthetic that elevates any bathroom. With their clean lines and sophisticated, open design, they are ideal for modern homes.

Added Value

Wet rooms are a growing trend desired by many homebuyers. Installing a wetroom could boost the value of your property, especially if you're considering selling in the future.

Considerations Before Installing a Wet Room

Wetrooms boast a range of benefits, but it's always wise to weigh all options. Here are a couple of things to keep in mind:

Initial Wet Room Cost

Installing a wet room typically requires a slightly higher initial investment than a standard bathroom refurbishment. However, the long-term benefits, such as the potential increase in property value, can outweigh the initial expenses.

Experts Required to Install a Wetroom

Since a wet room relies on a robust waterproofing system, choosing a reputable installer with experience in wet room construction is crucial. This ensures a leak-free and long-lasting wet room for years to come.

Open Shower Experience

Wet rooms offer a spacious, open showering experience. If you prefer the privacy of a traditional enclosed shower, consider incorporating a sleek glass screen for a more defined space without sacrificing the overall openness.

Planning: A Wetroom Buying Guide

If you've decided a wet room is the right choice for you, the next step is planning your dream wet room bathroom. Several key considerations will come into play:

Size and Shape

Wet rooms can be adapted to fit almost any size or shape of bathroom. However, ensure there's ample space for showering comfortably without feeling cramped. Consider creating a layout that allows for designated showering and drying areas.

Waterproofing

This is the most critical aspect of a wet room. The walls and floor are treated with a special tanking system, which creates a watertight barrier to prevent leaks and protect the subfloor from moisture damage.

Drainage

It's also important to choose a high-quality drainage system. The new bathroom floor needs to slope gently towards a central drain in the floor to ensure proper water flow. A qualified plumber can assess your existing drainage and advise on any modifications needed.

Flooring and Walls

Wet rooms typically feature fully tiled floors and walls. Choosing waterproof floor and wall tiles with a good anti-slip rating is essential for safety. Consider larger format tiles for a more spacious feel.

Wet Room Shower

Unlike traditional showers, wet rooms use a drain integrated directly into the floor or a level-access shower tray. This creates a seamless and minimalist look.

Shower Enclosure (Optional)

While not a necessity, some homeowners install a shower screen to define the shower area and prevent the rest of the bathroom from getting very wet. Fixed or movable glass panels can be incorporated to suit your preference.

Wet Room Ideas and Shower Room Inspiration

Once you've considered the practical aspects of your wet room design, you can focus on the creative elements. Here are some tips to inspire you:

• Lighting: Lighting plays a vital role in setting the mood and ambience in your wet room. Incorporate recessed spotlights or wall lights to create a bright and airy feel. Consider adding mood lighting for a touch of luxury.

• Shower features: Elevate your showering experience with a variety of showerheads and features. Rainfall showers, body jets, and even steam generators can transform your wet room into a spa.

• Storage solutions: Functionality doesn't have to be sacrificed for style in a wet room. Built-in niches or recessed shelves offer discreet storage solutions for toiletries and bathroom essentials.

• Accessories: The right bathroom accessories can add a personal touch to your wet room. Towel rails, robe hooks, and modern soap dishes can tie everything together and create a cohesive design.

How Do I Care for a Wet Room or Walk-In Shower?

Here’s how you can ensure your wetroom stays sparkling and functions optimally:

• Regular cleaning: After showering, use a squeegee to sweep water towards the drain. This prevents pooling and limescale buildup. After each use, use a microfibre cloth and mild cleaner to wipe down walls and tiles.

• Ventilation is key: Open a window or turn on an extractor fan after showering to remove moisture and prevent mould growth.

• Grout and sealant care: Regularly check grout and sealant for wear or cracks. Reapply sealant as needed to ensure the wet room is completely watertight.

• Drainage maintenance: Occasionally remove hair or debris around the drain with an unblocker or tweezers for optimal flow.

Experience the Benefits of a Wetroom for Yourself

If you’re eager to start transforming your standard bathroom into a wet room, Wetroomstop offers all the supplies needed to bring your visions to life. 

We offer a comprehensive range of superior-quality products at unbeatable prices. You’ll find everything from waterproofing materials and drainage supplies to underfloor heating and sleek enclosures. Our products are designed to work seamlessly together, ensuring a leak-free and long-lasting installation.

Browse our range of wet room supplies online or get in touch with us. Our team of experts can offer advice on product selection, wet room design, and expert bathroom installation.